With stories about the safety of the water we drink every day constantly in the news, we know that you’re interested in doing everything you can to ensure that your own water supply is chemical-free. One of the most effective ways to do just that? By purchasing a water filter for your home or office. However, with so many options on the market these days, it can sometimes be tough to figure out which model is right for you. The right water filter will depend on your needs, your concerns, and even where you live. Still, you want to find a filter that improves the overall taste of your water while eliminating toxins, dirt, and other mineral buildup.
When you’re thinking of investing in a filter, read this post before you buy. Consider this your ultimate guide to picking up the right filter for you and your family.
Understanding The Contaminants In Your Water
If you want to ensure that you end up picking the right water filter, you first need to understand why it’s so important to have one in the first place. If you think that the water you’re currently drinking is clean? Think again.
In fact, the water we drink every day — whether from the tap or even from a bottle — usually contains some form of contamination. According to data gathered by the CDC, these contaminants can sometimes include:
- Pesticides and fertilizers
- Lead
- Chlorine
- Mercury
- Gasoline additives like MtBE
- Arsenic
- Polychlorinated Biphenyls
The truth is that it can be difficult to know what’s really in the water we drink every day. Purchasing a water filter doesn’t just protect you and the people you love. It also offers you peace of mind.
Which Type Of Water Filter Should You Buy?
Now that you have more of an understanding as to why purchasing a water filter for your home is so important? Let’s take a look at some of the different models available to you, as well as the pros and cons of each.
A Reverse Osmosis Filter
If you’re looking for a filter that can eliminate contaminants like mineral buildup, pharmaceutical residue, and harsh chemicals? A reverse osmosis filter may be the best option for you. Essentially, it works by running your water through a filter and membrane, using high amounts of pressure to get rid of the things you don’t want to drink. These actually connect to the water lines underneath your sink, which means that usually, they’ll give you a separate faucet for your drinking water.
However, be aware that they’re on the pricier side, and that they use anywhere from 3-5 gallons of water per filtered gallon of drinking water. They also take up a good amount of space underneath your kitchen sink cabinets and need to be sanitized and maintained. Still, especially for those with serious filtration concerns, the extra amount of work required is often worth it.
Faucet Filters
If you’re looking for a water filter that doesn’t take a complicated process to install and won’t blow your budget? A faucet filter for your kitchen sink may be the perfect solution for you. Essentially, these filters work by using a diverter and attaching to the faucet that’s already present. Especially if you’re renting out your home or apartment, this is an excellent option that won’t take up a lot of space or require permission from a landlord.
However, it’s important to note that, if you have a more complicated faucet installed in your kitchen, it may be tough to find a compatible faucet filter. Additionally, sometimes they can have an impact on your overall level of water pressure.
A Countertop Filter
Especially if you’re concerned about the filtration system in your home getting clogged, and don’t mind having a smaller filter sitting on top of your counters? A countertop filter may be right for you. They come with a tiny hose that you can connect to your faucet, which means that they’re more affordable and won’t require you to call a plumber to install. This is a good model for those with minor filtration worries, and who are mainly concerned with improving the taste of their water.
A Whole House System
Especially if chlorine and mineral buildup are your main concerns — and if you know you live in an area where polluted water is a serious problem? You may want to consider making the investment into a whole house filtration system. Essentially, these kinds of filters connect to the main water line in your home. In addition to basic filtration, they also come with agents that soften your home’s water. This means that all the water in your home, from what you bathe into what you drink, is completely filtered. These kinds of filters are also an excellent choice for those who are looking to get rid of radium and barium in their water.
Of course, they’re more expensive and will require professional installation. Be aware that, depending on the type of whole house system you get, you may also want to install a countertop or faucet filter to ensure an effective overall filtration process.
Ready To Shop For The Perfect Water Filter?
We hope that this post has helped you to understand not only why you need to invest in a water filter, but also how to find the model that’s right for you. Whether you go with a countertop filter or a whole house filtration system, you can breathe easier knowing that you’ve done what you can to protect your family and help to keep them healthy. Looking for additional advice, reviews, and ratings of the best filters on the market? Check out our website to ensure you’re always making the smart choice when it comes to water filtration.